JJ Johnson, Nebraska Wildlife Federation executive director, says each state will be able to fund areas most in need.

“They can use it to help endangered species. They can use it to increase habitat for wildlife, which is our focus,” Johnson tells Nebraska Radio Network. “They can use it to, perhaps, hire additional biologists.”

Nebraska Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE1) co-introduced the bill, which goes before the House Natural Resources Committee for first review.

Johnson says this takes a more proactive approach to conservation.

“This is the biggest thing since, maybe, Teddy Roosevelt created the national park program,” he says. “It’s something that should have been done a long time ago. We’re very excited. It’s going to be a huge boost to every state in the United States, including Nebraska.”

He says Nebraska is expected to get about $15 Million each year under the program.